Inter-layer Video Disparity Vector Prediction via Spatial Proximity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional video codecs inaccurately predict disparity vectors due to not considering distances between current blocks and neighboring blocks, leading to incorrect selection of neighboring block candidates for disparity vector prediction in inter-layer video encoding and decoding.

Innovation Solution

An inter-layer video encoding and decoding method that prioritizes neighboring block candidates close to the current block by searching among spatial and temporal neighboring block candidates located at specific co-located locations, setting the motion vector of the found neighboring block candidate as the disparity vector, and using a default disparity vector when not found.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional video codec searches for neighboring block candidates without considering distance, then the search process is simple, but the prediction accuracy of disparity vector deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracy of disparity vectorVSAvoidcomplexity of neighboring block search process
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by prioritizing neighboring blocks based on their spatial proximity to the current block. Specifically, it defines a search order where blocks closer to the current block (e.g., left, top, bottom neighbors) are examined first, while farther blocks are examined later or skipped. This localized approach ensures that the most relevant neighboring blocks are selected for disparity vector prediction, improving accuracy without requiring a complete search of all possible blocks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the neighboring block search space into priority levels based on distance from the current block. Instead of treating all neighboring blocks equally, it divides them into groups (e.g., immediate neighbors vs. distant neighbors) and processes them in a specific order. This segmentation allows the system to focus computational resources on the most promising candidates first, achieving better prediction accuracy with reduced complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If far neighboring blocks are given search priority, then the search coverage is comprehensive, but the selected neighboring block candidate becomes inaccurate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of neighboring block candidate selectionVSAvoidsearch area of neighboring blocks
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent emphasizes local quality by giving higher priority to neighboring blocks that are spatially close to the current block. The search algorithm examines blocks in order of their proximity, ensuring that locally relevant blocks are selected as candidates before considering distant blocks. This approach maintains reliability by focusing on the most pertinent local information while still allowing broader search coverage if needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies preliminary action by performing a prioritized search where close neighboring blocks are examined first before distant ones. The algorithm establishes a predetermined search order based on spatial distance, so that the most likely candidates for accurate disparity vector prediction are evaluated early in the process. This preliminary focus on high-probability candidates improves selection accuracy while maintaining efficient search coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9924182B2Method for predicting disparity vector based on blocks for apparatus and method for inter-layer encoding and decoding video
Publication Date: 2018.03.20 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD
  • US9924182B2 patent drawing
  • US9924182B2 patent drawing
  • US9924182B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An inter-layer video decoding method includes searching for a neighboring block candidate which neighbors a current block and has a motion vector in an inter-layer direction, from among spatial and temporal neighboring block candidates; when the neighboring block candidate having the motion vector in the inter-layer direction is found, setting the motion vector in the inter-layer direction of the found neighboring block candidate as a disparity vector of the current block; when the neighboring block candidate having the motion vector in the inter-layer direction is not found, searching for a neighboring block candidate having disparity vector information from among the spatial and temporal neighboring block candidates; and when the neighboring block candidate having the disparity vector information is found, predicting a disparity vector of the current block based on the disparity vector information of the found candidate.